The Wings of Fire Orchestra is like nothing Iíve heard for at least the past two decades. I am impressed on so many levels, not sure where to start. This album is like a pizza with the works. Blending classic symphonic elements with a rock & roll drive, a funky, booty-shakiní groove and building it around a concept, The Wings of Fire Orchestra has succeeded with Prospice and have certainly gained a new fan here.

As I listen to the tracks, I keep thinking of all of those that came before and how the WoFO have clearly learned a thing or two from some of our legendary music pioneers. A complex web of influence has made fertile soil for composer Jeff Pflaumbaum in the growth of his original, very unique, colorful work. Freddie Mercury would be proud, I can feel his spirit in this music and the way this project stretches its wings in an all encompassing way. I hear colors of Pink Floyd, The Grateful Dead and maybe a sprinkle of Phish bringing the listener plenty of crunchy texture to satisfy.

Creeping along conjuring images of the west sideís Sharks & Jets, tracks like "Delta Street" brought to mind a stage full of streetwise thugs on Broadway whose passion lies in spontaneous, campy group dancing with plenty of high kicks and drama. I suppose the use of the choral singing elements throughout the album do much to nurture visions of a large theater ensemble cast.

This is not music that sits comfortably in the corner tucked behind conversations and chatter. It demands attention and plays itself out as a full stage production behind the eyes. My wish is that Jeff Pflaumbaum gets the recognition he deserves and a spot in music history that he is etching with his skillful composition and production of this amazing piece of conceptual candy.

Intent to keep my opinions unfettered and pure, I knew nothing about this CD until I slipped it into the player. What a fun and unexpected surprise I found in Prospice. I have the feeling that I will love it even more with each play. Iíd listen to this, turned up to drown out the rhythm of the road on my next road trip till I learn the words by heart. Someday, I would just love to see this played out as a full stage production, complete with sets and costume and choreography. Iíd raise my glass and propose a toast to the entire cast of characters and sounds that make up the Wings of Fire Orchestra. Iíll bring the whiskey. Bravo WoFo!

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